Bobby John Rider

Bobby John Rider, age 61 lifelong resident of Ridgway died Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family. Bobby John was born on December 26, 1950 in Shawneetown, IL to J.W. and Joyce (Hopson) Rider. Bobby John served his country in the Army, was a Baptist by faith and was a good man. Most will remember him when he worked for the Village of Ridgway for many years taking care of the streets, park , water dept or just about anything that the town needed done, he would do. His real love was on the farm where he and his father tended. He also worked many years on the Police Dept in Ridgway and the Gallatin County Sheriff Dept. Bobby John was ahead of his time on the drug investigations, as he was doing that years ago before police agencies made units for that. He liked to fish, hunt, garden, and visit with his friends and family. He will always be remembered for his love of horses and cooking. He was a good son, brother, uncle and companion and will be forever missed in Ridgway.

Bobby John is survived by his companion of many years, Mary Jo Holmes of Ridgway, his parents, J.W. & Joyce Rider of Ridgway, a brother, Mike Rider of Ridgway, 2 sisters, Lois (Bill) Lynch of Ridgway and Carol (Lindell) Bohnhoff of Dietrich, IL. Many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and a special Aunt, Bea Griffith.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 11, 2012 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Cox & Son Funeral Home in Ridgway. Graveside services for Bobby John will be on Saturday, May 12, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Westwood Cemetery in Shawneetown. Rev. Rob Gallion will officiate and everyone should go directly to the cemetery. Military rites will be conducted at the grave.